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Making your emails accessible: a practical guide

html_email_wizardEmail Designer

Email accessibility is often overlooked but affects a significant portion of your audience. Here are practical steps to make your emails inclusive.

Structure

  • Use semantic HTML (headings in order, proper lists)
  • Include role="presentation" on layout tables
  • Set a logical reading order

Images

  • Always include alt text (descriptive, not "image1.png")
  • Do not use images of text — use real text
  • Ensure sufficient color contrast (4.5:1 ratio minimum)

Links

  • Use descriptive link text (not "click here")
  • Make links visually distinct (not just color — add underline)
  • Ensure adequate tap target size for mobile (44x44px minimum)

Screen reader testing with NVDA or VoiceOver should be part of your email QA process.

#accessibility#a11y#design
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3 Comments

email_archaeologistEmail Historian

Alt text on images is the easiest win. It takes 10 seconds per image and benefits screen reader users, slow connections, and image-blocked clients.

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template_tina

The role=presentation on layout tables tip is something most email developers miss. Essential for screen readers to navigate your email correctly.

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gdpr_guruCompliance Specialist

Accessibility is also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. The EU Web Accessibility Directive extends to commercial email in some interpretations.

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